Newcastle United History Brought To Life

Newcastle United Foundation has brought over 100 years of black and white history to life in 12 months.

Over 3000 school children in 54 schools across the region have taken part in the Foundation's 'Toon Times' project since it launched in 2012. The educational programme not only brings history alive, it also uses the power of football to improve the literacy and learning techniques of children across the region.

Alongside the educational programme, a further 800 people have taken part in Toon Times roadshows in local community centres and care homes. These roadshows have brought together different generations to talk about the football club's history, share their favourite memories and look through artefacts and memorabilia.

Toon Times is delivered by Newcastle United Foundation in partnership with Tyne & Wear Archives and Museums. It is funded by the Premier League Charitable Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is also backed by the fastest growing supply teaching agency in the North East, First Class Supply.

Project Coordinator Gavin Ferry said:

"It has been an exciting first year for the Toon Times Project. My role is to take the Club into the local community and bring history to life in the classroom. Our ambition is that every school in Newcastle, Gateshead, North Tyneside and Northumberland will have the opportunity to take part over the next two years."

During the season, 100 children and their parents were also invited to be part of a new initiative called 'My First Match', enjoying a Premier League Match Day Experience as a family. In addition the project has recruited 11 volunteers to work alongside Foundation staff. In 2014 the project will include a major exhibition at Newcastle's Discovery Museum which could attract 360,000 visitors.